An Experience Beyond the Game
At the end of the day, it’s not the sport that makes the difference. It’s the experience you and your child have at the game that makes the difference. That’s why we operate our game leagues at takebacktheland.org very differently than other leagues.
How We’re Different: The i9 Sports Core Principles
Fun: We believe that the primary reason children play sports is to have fun. They love mastering new skills, developing friendships, and healthy competition. We avoid spoiling the fun by focusing more on skills development and enjoyment of the game than on the score.
Inclusivity: That’s our word for everyone’s right to play and have fun. Our program is for everyone, regardless of race, gender, religion, or ability level. No child will ever be excluded by a tryout, be made to feel like they aren’t good enough because of a league draft, or be cut from a team. We endeavor to play every child at least half of every game.
Safety: We believe your child’s safety is paramount. As such, we background check each of the adults supervising your children and hire trained officials for each game to ensure that “safe play” is enforced.
Good Sportsmanship: We believe that learning to play the game is only half the equation. Helping children develop character is the other half. The value of teaching children teamwork, fair play and good sportsmanship goes far beyond the game.
Healthy Competition: Competition is a natural instinct. However, the “win-at-all-costs” mentality so prevalent in youth sports today is not only destructive to team morale, it severely undermines individual self-esteem. We believe everyone should be both encouraged and given the opportunity to make the most of their abilities.